### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **diábolos**, represented by `{{G1228}}`, fundamentally means a **traducer**, **slanderer**, or **false accuser**, and is specially used to refer to **Satan**. It appears **38 times** across **36 unique verses** in the Bible, identifying the primary antagonist who stands in opposition to God and His people. The term encapsulates the nature of one who seeks to divide, deceive, and bring about destruction.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narrative, `{{G1228}}` is consistently portrayed as the tempter and adversary of humanity. His role is established early in the gospels, where he is the one who **tempted** Jesus in the wilderness ([[Matthew 4:1]], [[Luke 4:2]]). He is described as the believers' **adversary** who walks about like a **roaring lion**, seeking someone to devour [[1 Peter 5:8]]. His core identity is rooted in falsehood; he is called a **murderer** from the beginning and the father of **lies** [[John 8:44]]. He is the one who oppresses people [[Acts 10:38]] and actively works against the church, casting believers into **prison** to be tried [[Revelation 2:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the character and function of the **devil**:
* `{{G4567}}` **Satanâs** (the accuser, i.e. the devil): This term is used synonymously with `{{G1228}}` to identify the same entity, the great **dragon** who deceives the world [[Revelation 12:9]].
* `{{G476}}` **antídikos** (an opponent (in a lawsuit); specially, Satan (as the arch-enemy)): This legal term highlights his role as the direct **adversary** of believers, emphasizing the spiritual conflict they face [[1 Peter 5:8]].
* `{{G1404}}` **drákōn** (a fabulous kind of serpent (perhaps as supposed to fascinate)): This word describes his monstrous and warring nature, an identity revealed as the **Devil** and **Satan** who was cast out of heaven [[Revelation 12:9]].
* `{{G3985}}` **peirázō** (to test (objectively), i.e. endeavor, scrutinize, entice, discipline): This describes a primary action of the **devil**, who is the tempter that **tried** Jesus [[Matthew 4:1]] and continues to test believers through tribulation [[Revelation 2:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1228}}` is immense, defining the source of spiritual conflict and evil.
* **Origin of Sin and Lies:** The **devil** is identified as a **murderer** from the beginning, in whom there is no truth [[John 8:44]]. Scripture states that he that committeth **sin** is of the **devil**, for the **devil** sinneth from the beginning [[1 John 3:8]].
* **The Cosmic Adversary:** He is the **enemy** of all **righteousness** [[Acts 13:10]] who uses **wiles** [[Ephesians 6:11]] and snares [[1 Timothy 3:7]] against believers. For this reason, Christians are instructed to **resist** him steadfastly [[James 4:7]] and give him no **place** [[Ephesians 4:27]].
* **Destined for Judgment:** Though he has the **power** of death [[Hebrews 2:14]], his authority is temporary. The Son of God was manifested to **destroy** the **works** of the **devil** [[1 John 3:8]]. Everlasting fire is prepared for the **devil** and his **angels** [[Matthew 25:41]], and he will ultimately be **bound** [[Revelation 20:2]] and cast into the lake of fire for eternity [[Revelation 20:10]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1228}}` is far more than a simple name. It is a defining term for the ultimate **slanderer**, the source of temptation, and the cosmic **enemy** of God and humanity. From his confrontation with Jesus in the wilderness [[Matthew 4:1]] to his final judgment [[Revelation 20:10]], the concept of the **devil** serves to explain the origin of evil and underscore the necessity of faith and vigilance. His portrayal as a defeated foe ultimately affirms God's sovereignty and the victory available to believers who **resist** him [[James 4:7]].
TRV